Best Luxury Apartments in Dubai for Sale & Rent: Top Options for 2026

Dubai luxury real estate trends heading into 2026

Dubai’s real estate market has carried strong momentum through 2025, building on the record-breaking 170,992 property transactions recorded in 2024. Sales activity in prime and super-prime segments has remained particularly resilient despite global economic uncertainty.

The luxury segment, typically defined as transactions above AED 10 million, continues to expand. Following 4,737 luxury sales in 2024, Engel & Völkers data shows that transaction volumes in H1 2025 increased further, driven by demand in established prime locations such as Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate and District One.

With branded residences, waterfront developments and ultra-low-density projects continuing to launch, Dubai’s luxury apartment market is well positioned for sustained growth into 2026. Supply remains selective, while global demand for secure, tax-efficient lifestyle hubs continues to rise.

What defines a luxury apartment in Dubai

Luxury apartments in Dubai deliver both lifestyle value and investment appeal. What separates them from standard residential properties is a combination of design quality, location, service and long-term desirability.

Iconic architecture and design

Luxury developments in Dubai are often created in collaboration with internationally recognised architects and interior designers. These buildings stand out through distinctive silhouettes, refined detailing and a clear sense of identity rather than generic high-rise design.

Space and layout

Generous layouts are a defining feature. Open-plan living areas, oversized bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling glazing and expansive terraces are standard. Many ultra-prime apartments also feature private lifts, plunge pools or double-height living spaces.

Curated interiors and finishes

From imported marble and bespoke joinery to branded kitchens and designer fixtures, finishes are selected for longevity and visual impact. Many luxury and hotel residences are fully furnished, offering a turnkey living experience aligned with global hospitality standards.

Prime locations

Location remains fundamental. Luxury apartments are typically positioned within Dubai’s most established districts, offering proximity to business hubs, beaches, marinas, luxury retail and fine dining. Views, privacy and long-term scarcity all play a role in sustaining value.

Average prices for luxury apartments in Dubai

Luxury apartments in Dubai command premium pricing, but values vary widely depending on location, branding and specification.

Key price drivers include:

• Apartment size and layout

• Location and view

• Developer reputation

• Branded or serviced status

• On-site amenities and services

• Market demand and rental performance

As a general guide heading into 2026:

• Entry-level luxury one-bedroom apartments typically start from around AED 2 million

• High-quality three to four-bedroom apartments in prime areas often range from AED 5 million upwards

• Ultra-luxury and branded residences in trophy locations frequently exceed AED 10 million

These ranges reflect entry points. Prime waterfront and branded residences often sit well above these averages.

Best areas to buy luxury apartments in Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Dubai’s most iconic address, Palm Jumeirah offers beachfront living, private beaches and landmark branded developments. Demand remains exceptionally strong for both end-use and investment.

Downtown Dubai

Home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Downtown continues to attract buyers seeking centrality, skyline views and strong rental liquidity.

Bluewaters Island

An exclusive island community adjacent to Dubai Marina, Bluewaters offers low-density luxury living with waterfront views and a lifestyle-led environment.

Dubai Marina

One of Dubai’s most established waterfront districts, Dubai Marina combines lifestyle appeal with strong rental demand and long-term resale performance.

Jumeirah Bay Island

An ultra-exclusive island address offering privacy, architectural distinction and direct access to superyacht facilities. Supply in Jumeirah Bay Island is extremely limited.

Best luxury apartments for sale in Dubai (2026)

Rather than sheer volume, the luxury market is defined by a small number of standout residences with enduring appeal.

Atlantis The Royal Residences, Palm Jumeirah

A global trophy asset offering beachfront living, iconic design and world-class hospitality services. Strong international demand and long-term scarcity underpin value.

Six Senses Residences Palm Jumeirah

A wellness-led branded development combining beachfront living with holistic amenities. Appeals to both lifestyle buyers and long-term investors.

One Za’abeel Private Residences

Positioned at the gateway to DIFC, these residences offer architectural distinction, branded services and strong appeal to global professionals.

Mr C Residences Jumeirah

A boutique luxury development focused on privacy, service and understated elegance, suited to discerning end-users.

Como Residences, Palm Jumeirah

A sculptural masterpiece rising along the Palm’s crescent, Como Residences offers sky-high beachfront living with panoramic sea views, private pools, and curated wellness amenities.

The S Tower, Dubai Marina

Located in Dubai Marina, this 75-story tower will offer its residents the best infrastructure, amenities and luxury living. Featuring half and full floor apartments, The S Tower will offer an infinity pool and sky lounge, as well as private movie theatres, expansive balconies and breathtaking panoramic views of the Dubai Marina.

Baccarat Residences, Downtown Dubai

A new icon in Downtown, Baccarat Residences blends legendary hotel service with private living. Just moments from the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera, it offers opulence, convenience, and unmatched style.

Bulgari Lighthouse, Jumeirah Bay Island

Located in the renowned Jumeirah Bay Island, Bulgari Lighthouse is set to offer ultra-exclusive luxury living in Dubai. With flowing terraces, expansive sea views, and access to the exclusive Bulgari Marina and Yacht Club, this is truly waterfront luxury reimagined.

Bugatti Residences, Business Bay

Inspired by the French Riviera and the spirit of hypercar manufacturer Bugatti, this project is a bold expression of design, luxury, and performance. Enjoy car lifts, beach-inspired terraces, and breathtaking canal views.

Best Luxury Apartments For Rent In Dubai (2026)

Luxury rental demand remains strong as executives, entrepreneurs and UHNW tenants seek flexibility without compromising on service or location.

Bluewaters Residences, Bluewaters Island

Spacious waterfront apartments offering island tranquillity with direct access to dining and entertainment.

Dorchester Collection Residences, Business Bay

Five-star serviced living with bespoke interiors, private pools and canal views, managed by a globally recognised hospitality brand.

One at Palm Jumeirah

Ultra-luxury beachfront residences with private elevators, expansive layouts and resort-style amenities.

The Address Downtown

Serviced apartments in the heart of Downtown Dubai, offering immediate access to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa views.

Marsa Al Arab Residences

A newly launched coastal destination delivering marina-front living, wellness facilities and refined hospitality-led services.

Best luxury hotel apartments in Dubai

Luxury hotel apartments in Dubai are a rapidly growing segment with discerning residents and investors choosing them for their exceptional design, five-star services and amenities. Here are some of the most popular options within this segment: 

• Atlantis The Royal Residences

• Palazzo Versace Residences, Al Jaddaf

• Six Senses Residences Palm Jumeirah

• Kempinski Residences The Creek

• St. Regis The Residences Downtown

• Ritz-Carlton Residences Business Bay

• One&Only One Za’abeel Residences

Buying vs renting a luxury apartment in Dubai

Choosing between buying and renting depends on your time horizon, lifestyle preferences and financial strategy.

Buying offers:

• Long-term stability and asset ownership

• Potential capital appreciation

• Ability to customise the property

• Eligibility for long-term residency options such as the Golden Visa

Renting offers:

• Lower upfront costs

• Flexibility to relocate or upgrade

• Access to premium residences without ownership commitment

For long-term residents and investors, ownership often aligns better with value creation. For internationally mobile professionals, renting provides unmatched flexibility.

Leading developers of luxury apartments in Dubai

Developer reputation plays a major role in build quality, delivery standards and long-term value.

Emaar

Known for large-scale master-planned communities and landmark projects such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Creek Harbour and Emaar Beachfront.

Nakheel

Renowned for waterfront and island developments, including Palm Jumeirah and several of Dubai’s most recognisable luxury addresses.

Engel & Völkers closely monitors developer track records, delivery consistency and resale performance to guide clients toward resilient assets.

Omniyat

An elite boutique developer focused on architectural distinction and highly curated residences. Projects such as The Opus, ONE at Palm Jumeirah and Emaar Square Island demonstrate Omniyat’s commitment to design-driven luxury and scarcity-led value.

H&H Development

Renowned for crafting bespoke podium-free towers with expansive layouts, high-end finishes and bespoke concierge-level service. H&H’s portfolio attracts discerning end-users and global investors seeking refined living environments with lasting appeal.

How to choose the right luxury apartment in Dubai

• Set a clear budget to define your segment and avoid unnecessary compromises

• Understand your lifestyle priorities, whether beachfront tranquillity or city-centre energy

• Focus on amenities that add daily value, not just headline features

• Assess long-term desirability, including views, privacy and supply constraints

Finding your ideal luxury apartment in Dubai

Luxury apartments in Dubai offer a rare combination of global connectivity, lifestyle quality and long-term investment appeal. From beachfront branded residences to refined city-centre apartments, the market continues to evolve heading into 2026.

Whether you are searching for luxury apartments for sale in Dubai or premium rental opportunities, Engel & Völkers Private Office provides discreet advisory, off-market access and global expertise tailored to discerning clients.